AN INQUEST has opened into the death of a Southampton man who was found with serious injuries in mysterious circumstances.

It comes after officers launched an appeal for help in working out what happened to 48-year-old Mark Lewis, after he died in hospital on July 13.

As previously reported, Mr Lewis, of Coleman Street, St Mary’s, was found in neighbouring James Street by two passers-by at around 7am on Tuesday July 9. They could for an ambulance and have been assisting police.

He was described as being in a life-threatening condition at the time.

Officers investigating the circumstances surrounding Mr Lewis’ death asked for anyone who was in St Mary’s, specifically the vicinity between Hoglands Park and James Street, on the evening of Monday July 8 and the early hours of July 9 to get in contact.

It is believed he had been in Hoglands Park that afternoon prior to being found the next morning in James Street.

During the brief hearing at Winchester Coroner’s Court on Thursday morning, Home Office forensic pathologist Dr Basil Purdue gave a preliminary cause of death, through a report to the coroner, of a head injury.

Mr Purdue added he was awaiting the results of a specialist neuropathology examination.

Senior coroner Grahame Short adjourned the inquest to January 7, 2020, although that date could be affected by the police investigation.

A police spokesman confirmed investigations are ongoing.

Anyone with information regarding Mr Lewis’ death is asked to call police on 101 and quote 44190238411. Alternatively, you can call Crimestoppers on 0800 555 111.

He is described as white, 5ft 11in tall, of slim build, with short brown hair and brown eyes. He had his left ear pierced and tattoos on his forearm.

On July 8 and 9 he was wearing a blue and white chequered shirt and off-white shorts.

Since his death, a number of people have taken to Facebook to pay tribute to Mr Lewis.

Wendi Caroline Cropp-Moth wrote: “Very sad x RIP taken far to young its a cruel world sometimes x Condolences to family and friends xx.”